China to implement fully religious freedom: President

Beijing, China - Chinese President Hu Jintao Wednesday said the ruling Communist party would fully implement its policy of free religious belief and affairs in line with the law of the land, adding that the party recognizes religion as a constant factor in Chinese society.

'We shall fully carry out the party's policy of free religious belief and manage the relevant affairs in line with the law,' Hu, also the general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC), told the members of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee.

China's management on religion would be based on human understanding, he said, adding mutual respect is a must.

'The party and the government shall reach out to religious believers in difficulties and help them through their problems,' he said.

Hu also stressed the training and promotion of religious professionals, saying the CPC would help and support religious groups improve self governance, voice the opinions of followers, and protect their legal rights and interests.